When you think of volunteering, things that come to mind may be serving an organization or cause – but there’s so much more to it. We often don’t talk about the benefits associated with it such as having positive feelings, new friendships and a sense of purpose. According to Helpguide.Org, volunteering helps decrease stress, anxiety and depression. In this blog, we will take a look at ways volunteering impacts mental well-being.
Boosts your mood
We all know what it feels like to be burned out. Having to carry many responsibilities including maintaining the house and budgeting can be exhausting on the mind – but don’t worry, volunteer work that interests you can help reduce stress.
Research shows that people who support one another through volunteering often feel better afterwards than non-volunteers. The act of helping someone causes the brain to release neurotransmitters such as dopamine, serotonin and endorphins; which all play a role in mood.
Helps build connections
Looking to meet new people? Volunteering is a great way to foster connections. Spending time with other adults in a shared activity or shared interest helps develop meaningful friendships. In addition, interacting with others regularly improves social skills. While some people may be more outgoing than others, exposing yourself to new people and environments helps improve conversations.
Provides a sense of purpose
Do you have a skill or hobby that you want to get into? Volunteering gives you space to explore your passions without long-term commitment, which in return leaves you feeling fulfilled and peaceful. If you enjoy working with children, you can volunteer at a school or daycare.
Helps you stay physically active
If you are looking for ways to get some exercise without having to go to the gym, volunteering will get the job done. Volunteering at events that require movement such as standing and walking helps keep your body physically fit and healthy.
Volunteering also helps prevent many long-term health conditions. According to Mayo Clinic, those who volunteered frequently, reduced the risk of developing high blood pressure and heart disease as opposed to non-volunteers.
Villi Companions can join you
We understand that volunteering can be a lot of work, but you don’t have to do it alone. Your Companion can support you through the process. They can provide transportation to volunteer opportunities and companionship and conversation during the activities.
The Villi team is here to help.
Do you need help with a loved one? Then, consider Villi’s homemaker and companionship services. Our team of friendly, compassionate Companions takes great pride in serving people in their community who need light assistance with daily chores, some company and conversation, or convenient transportation for errands, appointments, or trips to the store.
Explore our services to learn more about our:
- Homemaker and companionship services
- Easy-to-use scheduling platform
- “Best Value” service pricing
- Only 1-hour service minimum
Sign up in seconds to enjoy free 24-hour access to our on-demand scheduling platform, where you can view our team of vetted compassionate companions.
If you have questions about our services, please call 1-844-624-5646 to speak to one of our caring service Advisors.
Reference Links:
HelpGuide.org -Volunteering and its Surprising Benefits
Mayo Clinic – Helping people, changing lives: 3 health benefits of volunteering
NACE -VOLUNTEERING CAN PROVIDE A BOOST TO YOUR MENTAL HEALTH